Mini Statements

[soundtrek]

I was all set to build the Mini Statements and have become somewhat hesitant. This would be my first DIY speaker build and I am nervous about not having the ability to hear before you buy.

I have never heard any DIY speakers so I have no idea about value versus performance when it comes to DIY. I am confident in my abilities as I am also a serious hobbyist woodworker.

I prefer a speaker with a flat response and very neutral sounding but accurately reproducing the source material. The speakers need to be 3 way or 3.5 way and full range. My listening style varies greatly from classical to pop to country and throw in some Irish (especially Celtic Woman) music as well. On occasion I am known to listen at pretty high levels as well.

My setup is Pioneer DV-58 universal player, Audio Research LS3 pre and currently a Peavey CS-800 soon to be replaced with a Rotel RB-1562 or 72.

I posted a while back in the official MS thread but am looking for some additional feedback or recommendations on designs. The budget range is $700/pair for drivers and crossovers. I already have cabinet and finish materials.

Also, if there are any Mini owners within a reasonable drive (4-5 hours) of South Bend Indiana willing to allow an audition that would be great.

Sorry for the long post! Thanks Kevin!

[maynardg]

I've heard the mini-Statements as well as some of the alternatives at that price range. IMO, this is the level of investment where if you choose any design as well regarded as the mini-Statements, you will not fail to get really good sound. The challenge is one of choosing among flavors of goodness.

I really like the mini-Statements. They have detail, accuracy, and a quality of clarity that is really great, but if you really value warm sound they may not be the last speakers you build. They can stay clean at higher levels than many physically smaller designs.

[---k---]

The Statement series are excellent speakers. If you are certain that you like a flat, neutral sounding speaker, I think you will like them. If you want warm, house party speakers, then they likely wouldn't be for you.

Jim says that there are like 200+ Statements out there. I bet you can find someone near SB. If not, you could always driver to Chicago and listen to the Khans instead. :P

Also, you might want to consider going to the upcoming Indiana DIY event. Should eb a real good event. I'm mad that I can't make it.

http://techtalk.parts-express.com/showthread.php?t=210096

[Jim Holtz]

Jim says that there are like 200+ Statements out there. I bet you can find someone near SB.

Hi Ryan,

Well, I'm not sure there's 200+ pairs in existence yet but I'm guesstamating 150+ pairs when all models are lumped together.

Regardless, thanks for the kind remarks about the Statements. I appreciate it!

Hey Maynard! Thanks to you too my friend!

Jim

[Jim Holtz]

Hi Kevin,

I think there are some Mini's scattered through out your area of the country but it'll be up to the owners to contact you. If you want to hear the originals and want to take a road trip to Des Moines, you're welcome to come to my home and listen.

Based on your needs assessment, I think the Mini's or the Statements would work very well. The Mini's should be limited to no more than about 110 DB however. If you want more than that, the Statements are the next step up and should handle 115 DB or so max.

If you haven't done so, search the Mission possible section for a number of build threads and builder feedback. There's a lot of information in the build threads.

HTH

Jim

[cobblepots]

I live in Cincinnati, may or may not be too much of a drive for you... I have the minis as mains, monitors as rears, and the center. You're welcome to visit and listen to them. Personally, I love them :T

[vinceb]

I like the minis a lot. They have me digging through my collection for the reference quality gems. A good recording on these is a treat, I get a lot of the comments I've read about depth of soundstage and imaging of individual instruments better listening to them. Not that my old speakers were slouches, but the midrange is great on these and it contributes in a big way. I haven't heard the other designs like the Khans but I don't think you would be disappointed, do pay attention to the info about spacing from the wall, 12" is the minimum from my experiments.

[flamethrower1]

I too have built the minis, monitors and the center channel.
It was my first build, and was challenging but well worth it.
These speakers are great for HT and music, you would not be dissapointed with them

[Sefferdog]

Also, if there are any Mini owners within a reasonable drive (4-5 hours) of South Bend Indiana willing to allow an audition that would be great.

Sorry for the long post! Thanks Kevin!

I am that close by plane. C'mon on down to Central Florida and you can listen to the Statements and Minis - side by side! :T

[Phil82]

(deleted -- dead thread)